Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. To accurately detect osteoporosis, doctors commonly use DEXA bone densitometry to measure bone mineral density (BMD). The bone density examination is a method use to determine how much mineral is in a person's bones. This number can then be compared to a similar reference population to determine whether a patient has osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease of low bone mineral content and could result in the development of fractures with little or no trauma. Once the bone density is determined, the value is converted into a score that reflects the relative risk of osteoporosis and the risk of sustaining fractures. This "T-score" can be used to assess the relative risk of future fracture and also be used to monitor a person's response to therapy.

Use medications that are known to cause bone loss, including corticosteroids such as Prednisone, various anti-seizure medications such as Dilantin and certain barbiturates, or high-dose thyroid replacement drugs

Have had x-ray evidence of vertebral fracture or other signs of osteoporosis

Women who are considering osteoporosis therapy or who are deciding on estrogen hormone therapy at menopause

Women on prolonged hormone replacement therapy

Patients who are being treated for osteoporosis and need follow-up

A Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), a low-dose x-ray examination of the spine to screen for vertebral compression fractures that is performed on the DEXA machine, may be recommended for older patients, especially if:

How should I prepare for my DEXA examination?

You will be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and to wear a gown during the exam. You may eat normally, but do not take any calcium suppliements for at least 24 hours prior to your test. Inform the technician if you have recently had a barium examination or have been injected with a contrast material for CT or radioisotope scan or if there is a possibility that you may be pregnant.

What can I expect during the exam?

There are different methods of determining bone density. Peninsula Imaging utilizes DEXA scanning (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) which is considered to be the best method available. The DEXA examination takes about 30 minutes. The patient rests, without moving, on a padded table while a small arm-like device passes over the patient. It is important that you remain as still as possible during the procedure to ensure a clear and useful image.

Spine - during an examination of the spine, your legs will be supported on a padded box to flatten your pelvis and lower (lumbar) spine.

Hip - the technologist will place your foot in a brace that rotates the hip inward.

In the event we can not do a hip or spine (surgery), we will perform a forearm of the non-dominent side.

What will I experience during this exam?

DEXA bone densitometry is a simple, painless and non-invasive procedure. Once on the examination table, you may be asked to remain still and to hold an awkward position for a short period of time while the machine takes measurements.

When and how will I find out the results of my test?

One of our on-site Radiologists will interpret your DEXA bone density results and forward a report to your referring physician. Your physician will review the results of your test with you. Your test results will be in the form of two scores:

T score - this number shows the amount of bone you have compared to a young adult of the same gender with peak bone mass. A score above -1 is considered normal. A score between -1 and -2.5 is classified as osteopenia, the first stage of bone loss. A score below -2.5 is defined as osteoporosis. It is used to estimate your risk of developing a fracture.

Z score - this number reflects the amount of bone you hae compared to other people in your age group and of the same size, race, and gender. If it is unusually high or low, it may indicate a need for further medical tests.

Are there any health risks from having a DEXA scan?

The examination uses a small amount of radiation, less than one-tenth the dose of a standard chest x-ray and less than a day's exposure to natural radiation. It is considered safe and will not result in side effects. There are no injections. If you are or think you may be pregnant, please inform the technologist.